A new multi-use games area and walking path have been completed at Riverside Park in Dervock, County Antrim.

The development includes a modern artificial surface suitable for a range of sports, with floodlights installed so the facility can be used throughout the year, including darker winter evenings. Work also saw the addition of a riverside walking path and seating area, creating more space for exercise and recreation within the park.

The Riverside Park improvements were delivered through the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, which supports investment in facilities for towns and villages with fewer than 5,000 residents.

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DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said he was pleased his Department had helped fund the project, describing it as "an excellent example of central and local government working with the local Dervock community to deliver on their needs." He added that the new facilities would support health, wellbeing and social inclusion in the village.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed the opening of the facility, noting that it "provides additional outdoor recreational space to be enjoyed by the entire local community." He said the project showed how collaboration between departments and council could deliver real benefits.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins added she was delighted her Department had contributed £24,000 to the project, calling it "a great example of how departments and local government can work together to improve the local environment for the community to enjoy."

Under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, projects have also been delivered in the settlements of Armoy, Cushendall, Drumsurn, Garvagh, Magilligan, Mosside, Greysteel, Kilrea and Rasharkin. Projects are currently underway in Bushmills, Dernaflaw, and Dungiven to create new and enhanced facilities and are due to be completed this financial year.